Firefighter Ricardo “Rick” Ortiz joined the LAFD on January 28, 1957 after serving in the Navy in World War II. In those days, probationary firefighters had to purchase their own gear including buying their own gloves. Ortiz borrowed about $300 from a credit union to purchase his uniform and equipment. Nowadays, firefighters are equipped with the basic uniforms, gear, and … [Read more...] about LAFD Legacy: Fire Captain I Rick Ortiz
LAFD Legacy
Retired LAFD Battalion Chief Steve Ruda: Living by Fire Service Core Values
A man of service and sacrifice. A man of God and country. A man who’s dedicated himself to teaching and uplifting the men and women serving on the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Retired LAFD Battalion Chief Steve Ruda personifies fire service core values as one of its legendary leaders. Service. Integrity. Professionalism. Innovation. Respect. Trust. The fire service core … [Read more...] about Retired LAFD Battalion Chief Steve Ruda: Living by Fire Service Core Values
LAFD Legacy: Inside the LAFD Museum, Memorial and Historical Society
As part of our LAFD Legacy series, we journey through history by taking you inside the LAFD Museum in Hollywood. Get a look at amazing LAFD apparatus and artifacts, going back more than 100 years. Watch and hear some incredible hidden stories unearthed by retired LAFD Captain I James Finn. He’s the president and master behind everything historic in the LAFD Museum, Memorial … [Read more...] about LAFD Legacy: Inside the LAFD Museum, Memorial and Historical Society
1992 L.A. Riots and the LAFD: Los Angeles on Fire
The 1992 L.A. Riots will be forever etched in the memories of people who were alive to witness the death and destruction that broke out after the verdicts were read in the Rodney King trial. The civil unrest, the violence, looting, arson, assaults, racial tension, resentment; a horrific time in Los Angeles history for everyone. Everybody on edge. Many terrified. Scarred. First … [Read more...] about 1992 L.A. Riots and the LAFD: Los Angeles on Fire
LAFD Legacy: Captain I James Finn LAFD, retired
President of the LAFD Museum, Memorial and Historical Society Respected, revered and honored, retired LAFD Captain I James Finn, who’s now president of the LAFD Museum, Memorial and Historical Society is one of our LAFD legends. Our LAFD Legacy series is shining a spotlight on members of the LAFD who are a part of a history of excellence. Living up to the high standards and … [Read more...] about LAFD Legacy: Captain I James Finn LAFD, retired